Boating

There are not very many locations that can offer the diversity of boating that the Northwest has to offer. Port Angeles was discovered in 1769 because of the wonderful sheltered harbor and deep water access, and throughout the years has been a welcome site for the ships coming in from the Pacific.

But there is much more to boating in the area than just being a safe haven for large ships. Port Angeles is directly associated with some of the finest cruising anywhere. A short 18 miles across the Strait of Juan de Fuca lies the famous San Juan and Gulf Islands, truly a boaters paradise. There are two marinas in the area. The Port Angeles Boat Haven at 48 deg 07.7’N, 123 deg 27’W offers transient moorage, gas, diesel, power, ice, fresh water, boat hoist, launching ramp, restrooms, showers, waste pump-out, bait and tackle. Next to the marina The Boat Yard provides covered and open work areas, and a 133 ton marine railway and a 40 ton straddle hoist. The town of Port Angeles offers all you will need for provisioning, restaurants, and marine repair.

The City Pier has transient moorage available during the summer months, and is situated within walking distance of several fine restaurants, the visitor center and a marine science center, which is definitely worth a visit.

Port Angeles offers customs clearance at either the City Pier or at the Boat Haven.

Nearby in Sequim the John Wayne Marina (yes it is named after the Duke) 48 deg 03.95’N, 123 deg 02.31’W offers a great park like secluded location in Sequim Bay. The marina is well protected by a massive breakwater and has transient moorage, power, water, gas, diesel, restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, dump station, and waste pump out. There is a marine store on site, which is well stocked and a small restaurant.

Also in Sequim Bay is the Sequim Bay State Park. This 92 acre park is located on the west shore. Mooring buoys are available, with restrooms, showers, and campsites on shore. There are several excellent anchorage options in Sequim Bay should you wish to not take advantage of the shore facilities. The community of Sequim is a few miles away and has several grocery stores, and many restaurants to choose from. Cab service is available from the marina. If you have your bike on board the Olympic Discovery Trail is easily accessed which offers a scenic and easy ride in to Sequim.

For the smaller boat enthusiast the Port Angeles area has some great options. Lake Crescent with its turquoise blue water and mountainous shore line is one of the prettiest boating experiences available. The lake is very deep and very cold, but you will be rewarded with the feeling of having the lake to yourself. Fairholm General Store is on the South tip of the lake and offers a boat ramp, and country store. A second boat ramp at the Storm King Ranger Station is operated by Olympic National Park. Turn at Lake Crescent Rd at the Lake Crescent Lodge turn off. A third boat ramp is available at Log Cabin Resort which can be reached by turning to the north on East Beach Road. Rental boats are also available.

If you don’t have a boat but want to experience being out on the water, The Water Limousine LLC. offers private cruises of the Pacific Northwest.


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